An un-Bull-ievable moment.
A University at Buffalo graduate and proud father bucked school officials as he ran across the stage to receive his diploma with his young son in tow and police in pursuit in a wild, unforgettable commencement scene.
Jean Paul Al Arab had promised his son they’d collect his diploma together. He kept that vow at the university’s Alumni Arena on Sunday when he walked across the stage holding the infant to celebrate his degree — even with the threat of arrest.
Al Arab, who graduated with a bachelor’s in criminology, ran on stage after the last names were called and took the spotlight with his kid, who donned a blue cap and gown to match his father.
“I ran, that’s what I did. I had to. I promised him I was gonna walk with him on the stage,” Al Arab told WGRZ.
School security and a police officer attempted to grab the determined graduate, but failed when Al Arab made it on stage and victoriously celebrated in front of the raucous crowd.
Al Arab also shook hands with the school administrators on stage before walking off as a police officer waited behind him on stage.
The newly graduated father was met by several officers in the arena as the crowd and other graduates looked on, with some “booing” the law enforcement response.
Al Arab’s antics during the UB College of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Commencement ceremony were a last-minute decision from the father, whose initial plans were foiled by school officials.
“During a prep class for commencement, I asked if I could walk with my baby and they told me it was fine,” Al Arab shared in a post to TikTok.
“When the time came, they tried to stop me and even called the police. They tried to escort me out, but honestly, the only reason they let me go was because all of you who cheered and supported me.” he said, referencing the large crowd inside Alumni Arena.
Al Arab says he worked two jobs, one overnight, and took care of his son during the day while the boy’s mother was out, all while being a full-time student at the SUNY institute.
“Here I am graduating with my boy by my side. WE DID IT!” he wrote.
He said that he graduated in Fall 2024 and already received his diploma, but had the opportunity to walk across the stage during the spring ceremony.
The University of Buffalo stated it wouldn’t allow Al Arab’s son on the stage due to safety concerns.
“Commencement rules are in place for the safety of all those in attendance and to avoid disruptions in the venue, ensuring each graduate is equally provided with a well-deserved moment to individually cross the stage and be recognized for their outstanding accomplishments at UB,” the school said in a statement obtained by WGRZ.
Al Arab received a flood of support across social media for sharing the emotional moment alongside his son despite officials trying to stop him
“You put in the work and I am sure the (money). If you want to walk wit the thing that drove you to succeed, there shouldn’t be a problem,” one person said on TikTok. “Show that kid what it means to be successful!”
“It’s so strange they tried stopping you when they allow mothers to walk with their baby all the time,” another commenter added.
“The police officer could have at least moved out the way since you had already made it that far,” a third said, referencing the officer who stood on the stage.
Al Arab’s son, despite wearing the traditional cap and gown, did not receive a diploma with the school saying he was a few credits shy of graduation standards.
“We hope to see him back on stage in about 20 years so he can follow in his dad’s footsteps,” the school said.
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